Why I Chose SQLite as the Database Engine for Rails

So, why have I chosen SQLite as the database engine to pair with Rails as our web application framework? Fundamentally, the answer is simple: it’s fast and efficient.

SQLite is literally just a file on disk, running as an embedded executable inside your application process. This means fewer moving parts, which in turn means fewer points of failure. It also makes SQLite incredibly fast—there’s no need to make an HTTP request to a separate database server, possibly in a different region, just to fetch your data. Instead, your data is right next to your application, eliminating interprocess and network overhead, resulting in lightning-fast query performance.

I like to say that when you move from PostgreSQL to SQLite, you stop measuring queries in milliseconds and start measuring them in microseconds. That difference might not seem like much—until you experience it. The speed and efficiency of SQLite open up new possibilities for application development.

For example, you don’t have to worry as much about N+1 queries, nor do you need to write overly complex SQL queries just to minimize network requests. Instead, you can execute a higher volume of simpler queries, each optimized for indexes and executed instantly. This inherent efficiency keeps your application fast and responsive, while also enabling a smooth development experience.

SQLite Is Cost-Effective and Predictable

Beyond speed, SQLite is incredibly cheap. The library itself is free and open-source, but even hosting it requires minimal resources—all you need is a machine with a file system. Unlike cloud-hosted databases, there’s no extra cost for a second machine or separate disk space to host the database.

Backups are also straightforward. You can perform local backups with no additional costs, or use S3-compatible bucket storage for cheap, scalable backups. With storage costs lower than ever, backing up an SQLite database is affordable and hassle-free.

But the real advantage? Predictability. Unlike cloud-based databases, you won’t wake up to an unexpected bill due to high traffic or hidden egress fees. In recent months, we’ve seen a growing number of horror stories from developers shocked by unpredictable cloud costs. While cloud databases have their place, their pricing structures can be difficult to manage, especially when scaling an application.

By leveraging the simplicity, speed, and cost-effectiveness of SQLite, you get all the benefits of a reliable database without unpredictable expenses. For bootstrappers, indie developers, and anyone moving fast, this can be the key difference between the success or failure of a business venture.

That’s why I believe SQLite is the perfect companion to Rails—allowing you to build fast, efficiently, and with confidence, ensuring your application is truly production-ready from day one.